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NHL Central Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Florida over Dallas at 8:35 pm et on Tuesday.

The Panthers have suddenly lost three games in a row after taking over the league lead in points with a win back on April 4th. I do look for them to bounce back in the back half of this two-game set in Dallas, however. Note that while the Panthers have been idle in Dallas since suffering a 4-1 loss here on Saturday, the Stars went out on the road and lost in overtime at Nashville on Sunday. If the Panthers are going to be sitting around Dallas for four days they might as well get a win out of it. I like their chances here. Note that Florida has gone 29-15 after giving up four goals or more in its last game over the last two seasons, averaging an impressive 3.5 goals per game and outscoring opponents by 0.6 goals on average in that spot. They also average 4.4 goals per game after being held to one goal or less in their last game over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.8 goals in that situation. The Stars got off to an incredibly fast start in Saturday's eventual 4-1 win over the Panthers, scoring twice in the game's first two minutes and grabbing a 3-0 first period lead to essentially force Florida away from its gameplan. Here, I look for the Panthers to get the early jump, noting that the Stars have suffered a bit of a hangover effect, averaging a miserable 1.6 goals per game when returning home off a division loss on the road over the last two seasons. The Panthers are giving up just 2.4 goals per game when coming off a loss this season and check in 12-9 on the road. It's been feast or famine for the Stars at home, as they've outscored opponents by 0.6 goals per game but own a disappointing 8-12 record here in Big D. Take Florida (10*).

NHL Chalk Game of the Month. My selection is on Tampa Bay over Nashville at 8:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Lightning had been struggling prior to a six-goal outburst in a win over the Blue Jackets on Thursday. Now they head to Nashville where they look to keep hopes of a winning road trip alive against the surging Predators. I like Tampa Bay's chances here as it has taken three of the last four meetings in Nashville and will be out for revenge after suffering a stunning 4-1 loss against the Preds on home ice back on March 15th. Note that the Lightning are an incredible 34-11 after losing two of their last three games over the last three seasons, outscoring opponents by 1.1 goals per game in that situation. They're a terrific positive momentum play here as they've gone 36-11 after posting a win by two goals or more over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 1.4 goals on average in that spot. Meanwhile, the Preds check in just 4-13 coming off consecutive road wins over the last three seasons, as is the case here, outscored by 1.0 goal per game along the way. They've won just twice in their last 10 home games when coming off three straight wins, outscored by 0.9 goals on average in that spot. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

NHL Underdog Game of the Month. My selection is on Los Angeles over San Jose at 10:35 pm et on Friday.

I like the way this spot sets up for the Kings after they snapped a three-game losing streak with a come-from-behind win over the Coyotes on home ice two nights ago. While they were able to get back on track, the Sharks have had to sit on an ugly 5-1 home loss against the lowly Ducks since suffering that setback on Tuesday night. San Jose is now just 7-9 on home ice this season, where it allows 3.4 goals per game. Note that the Kings are in a favorable spot here, as they average 4.0 goals per game after giving up three goals or more in three straight games over the last three seasons, outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals per game in that spot. Los Angeles has averaged 3.3 goals per game while outscoring the opposition by an average of 0.4 goals when revenging a one-goal loss this season, as is the case here. Meanwhile, the Sharks average just 2.1 goals per game and have been outscored by an average margin of 0.8 goals when playing at home after allowing five goals or more in their last contest. San Jose has owned this series this season, taking five of six meetings so far, but I look for the Kings to get one back in the front half of this two-game set tonight. Take Los Angeles (10*).

NHL East Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Pittsburgh over New York at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

I think we're dealing with a bit of an overreaction here following the Rangers 8-4 thrashing of the Penguins on Tuesday night (we won with the 'over' in that game). Pittsburgh has now dropped back-to-back games, in fact, allowing a whopping 15 goals in the process. I don't think it's time to hit the panic button, however, noting that prior to those two contests the Pens had held 15 straight opponents to three goals or less. Pittsburgh is set up well here on Thursday, noting that it has gone a perfect 7-0 when coming off consecutive division losses over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 2.3 goals per game in that situation. The Pens are also 24-10 after allowing three or more goals in consecutive games over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 0.8 goals on average in that spot. Finally, we've seen Pittsburgh post a 14-4 record when revenging a loss by three goals or more against an opponent over the last two seasons, outscoring the opposition by 1.1 goals per game in that situation. Meanwhile, the Rangers are 3-11 in their last 14 games played at home following a win over a division opponent. While the Blueshirts took Tuesday's matchup in blowout fashion, the Pens have held their own here at MSG, splitting the last six meetings. Take Pittsburgh (10*).

NHL West Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Los Angeles over Arizona at 10:05 pm et on Wednesday.

We missed the mark with the Kings in a game that was never close against the Coyotes on Monday. With that being said, I won't hesitate to go back to the well with Los Angeles here as it aims to snap its three-game skid on home ice. While the Coyotes have reeled off three straight road wins, this will be their fifth game in the last eight nights and it's certainly worth noting that they have been outscored by 0.4 goals per game on the road this season. The Kings average 4.0 goals per game after giving up three goals or more in three straight games this season, outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals per game in that situation. They've also gone 5-1 off three or more straight home losses over the last three seasons, giving up just 1.7 goals per game and outscoring the opposition by an average of 1.6 goals in that spot. Meanwhile, Arizona checks in a miserable 26-63 the last 89 times it has come off consecutive games in which it allowed two goals or less, as is the case here, outscored by 0.8 goals per game in that situation. Take Los Angeles (10*).

My selection is on Los Angeles over Arizona at 10:05 pm et on Monday.

We missed the mark with the Kings on Saturday as they fell by a 3-2 score against the Sharks. That marked their second straight loss after splitting a two-game set in Las Vegas. I won't hesitate to go back to the well here, however, as Los Angeles stays at home to host the Coyotes, who are off an overtime win Anaheim last night. That sets up Arizona poorly as it checks in 2-11 off a road win by one goal over the last two seasons, outscored by 1.6 goals on average in that situation. The Kings check in outscoring opponents by 0.7 goals on average when playing at home after losing three of their last four games this season. In the long-term picture, the 'Yotes have posted a miserable 25-63 record after allowing two goals or less in consecutive games, outscored by 0.9 goals per game in that spot. While Arizona has won six of its last eight games overall, four of those victories came against losing opponents in the Sharks and Ducks and the other came in a shootout against the Avalanche (with Colorado starting its third-string goaltender). Take Los Angeles (10*).

My selection is on Florida over Columbus at 5:05 pm et on Sunday.

The Blue Jackets are a mess right now, having lost six of their last seven games, and don't figure to get back in the win column against the streaking Panthers on Sunday afternoon. Florida has won five consecutive games and certainly wants to keep that streak intact before heading out on the road on its longest trip of the season (six games). Florida is 13-7 on home ice this season, where it averages 3.1 goals per game. Meanwhile, Columbus has gone 7-13 on the road, averaging a less than impressive 2.1 goals per contest. Note that the Blue Jackets average just 1.7 goals per game when playing on the road off consecutive losses this season. I don't feel they can keep up with a Panthers squad that averages 3.7 goals per game following a division win over the last two seasons, noting that Florida welcomed back Sasha Barkov and Patric Hornqvist last night with the pair chipping in two assists and seven combined shots on goal in Florida's 5-2 victory. Take Florida (10*).

NHL Rivalry Game of the Year. My selection is on Los Angeles over San Jose at 10:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Kings returned home and couldn't keep the positive momentum building in a 3-0 loss to the Sharks last night. I do look for them to bounce back on Saturday, however. Note that Los Angeles has gone 9-3 off a loss by three goals or more against a division opponent over the last three seasons, outscoring the opposition by 1.4 goals per game in that situation. Meanwhile, the Sharks have given up 3.5 goals per game when coming off consecutive wins over the last two seasons, outscored by 0.4 goals on average in that spot. Keep in mind, last night's shutout performance was an anomaly for San Jose on the road this season, where it has given up 3.3 goals per game. By contrast, the Kings are allowing just 2.7 goals per game on home ice, and allow only 2.3 goals per game when at home revenging a loss against an opponent by two or more goals over the last two seasons. The Sharks are 4-1 against the Kings this season but I look for Los Angeles to get one back tonight. Take Los Angeles (10*).

NHL North Division Game of the Week. My selection is on Edmonton over Calgary at 9:05 pm et on Friday.

The Oilers are in a nice bounce-back spot at home on Friday night as they look to respond following a 4-0 loss in Montreal on Tuesday. Note that Edmonton is 26-12 after giving up four goals or more in its last game over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 0.7 goals per game in that spot. The Oilers are also 21-10 when coming off a loss by two goals or more over the last two seasons, as is the case here. Meanwhile, Calgary checks in a woeful 2-9 after losing a home game by three goals or more over the last three seasons, allowing 3.4 goals per game in that situation. The Flames have of course had a miserable time scoring with any consistency this season, particularly on the road where they average just 2.1 goals per game. Meanwhile, the Oilers average 3.5 goals per game on home ice and off a shutout loss will be eager to bounce back here at home before heading back on the road for three games in Montreal and Ottawa. Take Edmonton (10*).

NHL Revenge Game of the Month. My selection is on Carolina over Chicago at 8:05 pm et on Thursday.

I like the way this one sets up for Carolina as it look to bounce back following a 2-1 loss to the Blackhawks here two nights ago. The Canes remain a solid road team this season, having gone 12-7, allowing just 2.7 goals per game in the process. Chicago is in a tough spot here, having gone a miserable 5-15 following a home win against a division opponent over the last three seasons, allowing 3.8 goals per game in that situation. Meanwhile, the Canes have allowed just 2.0 goals per game when playing on the road following a one-goal loss over the last two seasons. Carolina averages north of three goals per game on the road this season and is set up well here, noting that it averages exactly 3.0 goals per game after being held to a goal or less in its previous contest over the last three seasons, as is the case here. The Canes got a boost with the return of Victor Trocheck on Tuesday. He chipped in an assist, played more than 18 minutes and fired six shots on goal in the loss. Take Carolina (10*).

NHL Game of the Month. My selection is on Winnipeg over Calgary at 10:05 pm et on Monday.

The Jets have been a tremendous bounce-back team all season long and after cashing with the Flames in Saturday night's virtual must-win game, I won't hesitate to switch gears and back Winnipeg in Monday's finale of a three-game set here in Calgary. Winnipeg remains a winning team on the road this season, having gone 11-8, outscoring opponents by 0.3 goals per game. While the Jets are a solid 9-3 when revenging a loss of any kind this season, they're even better revenging a loss where they allowed four goals or more, going 7-1, outscoring the opposition by 1.4 goals per game in that spot. Meanwhile, the Flames are a miserable 1-7 after scoring four or more goals in a game this season, outscored by 2.0 goals per game while managing just 1.8 goals on average in that situation. Also note that Calgary has allowed 3.8 goals per game when playing at home off a division win over the last three seasons. I mentioned that Saturday's game was a virtual must-win for Calgary on the heels of four straight losses. The fact that the Flames managed to win that game only leaves them in a clear letdown spot against what I would consider a superior Jets squad that will be motivated to wrap up their seven-game road trip with a winning record. Take Winnipeg (10*).

NHL North Division Game of the Week. My selection is on Calgary over Winnipeg at 10:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Flames fell short again last night, falling by a 3-2 score against the Jets - their fourth consecutive loss. Calgary did manage to score two goals in the third period which is at least a positive for them to hang its hat on entering Saturday's rematch with Winnipeg. While the Flames are down right now, I'm not about to write them off, especially here on home ice where they're still a winning team on the season and average north of three goals per game. They've also still taken 13 of the last 17 meetings with the Jets here in Calgary. With Winnipeg having taken four of six meetings this season, there's even more motivation for the Flames to get back on track on Saturday. Take Calgary (10*).

My selection is on Florida over Dallas at 8:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Panthers are reeling right now, fresh off three straight losses and dealing with a couple of key injuries to Sasha Barkov and Patric Hornqvist. With that being said, I do look for them to bounce back on Saturday night as they put a disappointing start to their current road trip behind them with a convincing victory. Florida was competitive in last Sunday's 5-3 loss in Tampa (we won with the Lightning in that game) before getting stymied in consecutive low-scoring losses in Chicago. A change of scenery should be a positive thing as the Panthers head to Dallas on Saturday, where the Stars are just 7-10 on the season and in line for a letdown off a come-from-behind win over the first-place Lightning two nights ago. Note that the Panthers average a whopping 5.0 goals per game and outscore the opposition by an average margin of 1.4 goals after scoring one goal or less in their last game over the last two seasons, as is the case here. Take Florida (10*).

NHL Underdog Game of the Week. My selection is on San Jose over Arizona at 10:05 pm et on Friday.

We have a pretty good feel for the Sharks right now, having been involved in three of their last six games, winning on consecutive occasions with them on the puck-line in Las Vegas before cashing a big play on the 'over' in their most recent contest at home against the Kings. Here, I'll back them again as they continue to play reasonably well and push toward a playoff spot in the West Division. Of course, it's going to be an uphill battle as San Jose currently sits seven points back of the fourth-place Blues but does have two games in hand. Tonight's opponent is another team San Jose is currently looking up at in the standings. Arizona checks in off a thrilling 5-4 overtime win over the Avalanche on Tuesday. Keep in mind, Colorado elected to go with Jonas Johansson in goal for that game - he was an acquisition from the Sabres last week and has been generally awful this season. Now the Coyotes are in a tough spot having gone 3-18 following a one-goal victory over the last two seasons, outscored by 1.4 goals on average in that situation. Off an overtime win over the last two seasons, Arizona has gone a miserable 1-9, losing those contests by an average margin of 1.7 goals. Meanwhile, the Sharks are 7-3 revenging a road loss against an opponent this season, outscoring opponents by 0.6 goals per game on average. Despite its overall losing record, San Jose has also gone a solid 9-5 after losing four or five of its last six contests this season, averaging 3.5 goals per game in that situation. The Sharks have managed to hold their own here in Glendale in recent years, splitting the last six meetings, including a 1-1 split earlier this season where they won the front-half. Take San Jose (10*).

NHL West Division Game of the Week. My selection is on Colorado over Vegas at 9:05 pm et on Thursday.

I like the way this one sets up for the Avalanche coming off a disappointing shootout loss in Arizona two nights ago. Colorado went with newly-acquired and struggling goaltender Jonas Johansson in that game, giving Philipp Grubauer a much-deserved night off. Grubauer should be back in goal on Thursday, noting that he has allowed just three goals on the last 137 shots he has faced. The Avs are also back on home ice for this one, where they've gone 11-5 this season, outscoring opponents by 1.6 goals per game. Of course, Colorado will also be looking for revenge after suffering a 3-0 loss against the Knights here in Denver back on February 22nd. We actually won with Vegas in that spot, expecting a clear letdown from the Avs off their outdoor game victory over the Knights two days earlier. Colorado has gone a perfect 9-0 revenging a same-season loss against an opponent this season, outscoring the opposition by an incredible 2.9-goal margin in those contests. The Avs are also a solid 23-9 after allowing four goals or more in their last game over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 1.8 goals on average in that situation. Vegas averages just 2.7 goals per game after winning two of its last three games over the last two seasons and I don't believe it will have enough to get past the Avs in the first of this two-game set on Thursday night. Take Colorado (10*).

My selection is on Florida over Chicago at 8:05 pm et on Thursday.

I'll back the Panthers as they look to snap their mini two-game skid on Thursday night in Chicago. We actually won with the Blackhawks in the front half of this two-game set as they skated to a 3-2 victory. Now Florida is set up well to respond favorably, noting it has allowed just 1.9 goals per game when on the road coming off a one-goal loss against a division opponent over the last two seasons, outscoring the opposition by 0.9 goals in that situation, which has come up on 10 previous occasions. Meanwhile, Chicago is giving up a whopping 4.2 goals per game when playing on home ice following a one-goal victory over the last three seasons. The Panthers are 15-5 coming off a road loss over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 0.9 goals per game in that situation. No Sasha Barkov for the Panthers again on Thursday but they have enough depth to pick up the slack. Take Florida (10*).

My selection is on Tampa Bay over Dallas at 8:35 pm et on Tuesday.

We won with the Lightning on Sunday and we'll come right back with them again on Tuesday night as they head to Dallas to face the Stars for the second time in a week. The Stars simply haven't been able to regain the magic that saw them make an improbable run to the Stanley Cup Final to face these same Lightning last fall. Considering they've been held to three goals or less in seven straight games, losing five of those, I question whether they can keep pace with the Lightning here. Note that Dallas is a miserable 1-7 when revenging a loss where its opponent scored four goals or more this season. Meanwhile, the Lightning have been a tremendous positive momentum play, having gone 34-10 coming off four or more straight wins over the last three seasons, as is the case here. They've outscored the opposition by an average margin of 1.4 goals in that situation. Take Tampa Bay (9*).

My selection is on Carolina over Columbus at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

We missed the mark with the Hurricanes on Saturday but probably deserved a better fate as they gave up the tying goal in the final minute of the third period and then had what appeared to be the game-winning goal called back in overtime due to the play being offside. Despite dropping the last two games against the Blue Jackets I still feel that the Hurricanes are the superior team (not exactly a stretch, I know). Each of those last two games could have easily gone either way and I'm confident we'll see the 'Canes get back in the win column on Monday night. Note that Carolina has been a solid road team this season, going 10-6. Meanwhile, the Blue Jackets are just 7-10 on home ice, allowing 3.2 goals per game. Carolina is 27-19 the last 46 times it has gone on the road following consecutive home losses, averaging 3.1 goals per game in that situation. Meanwhile, Columbus averages just 1.8 goals per game when returning home following a one-goal win over a division opponent over the last two seasons, outscored by 0.9 goals on average in that spot. Take Carolina (9*).

NHL Rivalry Game of the Month. My selection is on Tampa Bay over Florida at 4:05 pm et on Sunday.

I'll take advantage of a rare short price to back the Lightning on Sunday afternoon as they aim to keep their winning streak intact against the rival Panthers. Florida is coming off a 2-0 bounce-back victory over the Predators yesterday but finds itself in a tough situation here. Note that the Panthers are 1-4 after winning six or seven of their last eight games this season, as is the case here. They're also 14-23 after winning five or six of their last seven games over the last three seasons. Meanwhile, the Lightning own a stellar 44-15 record against division opponents over the last two seasons and certainly haven't forgot the 6-4 loss they suffered at the hands of the Panthers here at home on February 15th. That marked Florida's first victory here in Tampa in their last five tries though and I look for the Lightning to get the season series back to an even 2-2 with a win on Sunday afternoon. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

My selection is on Toronto over Calgary at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Leafs struggles continued last night as they fell behind early and never recovered in a 4-3 loss against the Flames. I do expect Toronto to bounce back on Saturday night, however, noting that it has gone an incredible 15-4 after losing five or six of its last seven games over the last three seasons. While Calgary did win last night, it is still a losing team on the road at 7-10 on the season, where it allows over three goals per game. Take Toronto (9*).

NHL Central Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Carolina over Columbus at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

I have no problem laying the relatively steep price to back the Hurricanes on home ice against the Blue Jackets on Saturday. Columbus took the first game of this two-game set in Carolina on Thursday by a 3-2 score in overtime. That puts the Jackets in a tough spot here as they're averaging just 1.9 goals per game playing on the road off a one-goal road win over the last two seasons, outscored by an average margin of 0.7 goals in that situation. On six occasions where the Jackets have played on the road off a road win over a division opponent over the last two seasons, as is the case here, they've averaged just one goal per game and have been outscored by an average margin of 1.8 goals. Carolina allows just 1.9 goals per game and outscores the opposition by 1.0 goal on average when coming off an overtime loss over the last three seasons. Take Carolina (10*).

My selection is on Colorado over Minnesota at 9:05 pm et on Thursday.

This is about as cheap of a price as you're going to see with the Avs playing at home and it has everything to do with the fact that the Wild have won five straight games. Keep in mind, those five straight wins all came at home. Now the Wild head out on the road to face what will be a revenge-minded Avs squad after Minnesota took the most recent meeting 6-2 in late February. Note that Colorado is 20-7 when revenging a loss where it allowed 4+ goals over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.6 goals in that situation. The Avs are also 17-3 off a home win by 2+ goals over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by 1.8 goals per game. The Wild are 12-24 after recording consecutive wins by 3+ goals. Take Colorado (10*).

My selection is on Florida over Chicago at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Blackhawks snapped their two-game skid with a 4-2 win in Dallas on Thursday but I look for them to go back to their losing ways on Saturday as they take on the red hot Panthers. Florida is coming off an improbable comeback win in Columbus on Thursday, rallying from a 4-1 third period deficit to win the game in overtime. Now the Cats are back home where they've gone 10-2-1 this season. The Blackhawks certainly prefer to play an up-tempo style but that plays right into the hands of the Panthers, who rank fifth in the league in goals per game this season. Florida also ranks tops in the league in shots on goal per game which spells trouble for a Blackhawks team that ranks 19th in goals per game allowed and 31st in shots on goal per game allowed. Take Florida (10*).

NHL Game of the Week. My selection is on Philadelphia over Washington at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Capitals have certainly had the Flyers number this past week but I'm willing to go back to the well with Philadelphia here as the situation sets up well for the home side. Note that the Flyers have gone a perfect 7-0 when coming off a home loss by two goals or more over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 2.8 goals in that situation. They're also an exceptional 14-3 after losing four or five of their last six games over the last two seasons, averaging 3.9 goals per game and outscoring the opposition by 1.5 goals on average in that situation. Keep in mind, prior to dropping its last two games against the Caps, Philadelphia had won five consecutive meetings in this series. With the Caps allowing three goals per game on the road this season, I still feel they're vulnerable and look for the Flyers to finally put one over on them on Saturday night. Take Philadelphia (10*).

My selection is on Philadelphia over Washington at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Flyers busted out of their slump with a 5-4 victory over the Sabres on Tuesday and now I look for them to keep it rolling as they host the Capitals on Thursday. Note that the Caps defeated the Flyers by a 3-1 score this past Sunday, which actually serves Philadelphia well here. The Flyers have given up just two goals per game when at home revenging a loss by two goals or more over the last two seasons, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 1.1 goals. Likewise, they've allowed just 2.3 goals per game after giving up three goals or more in three straight games over the last three seasons. Washington has had a tendency to let down its guard, allowing 3.5 goals per game off a home win over a division opponent over the last two seasons. Take Philadelphia (10*).

My selection is on Toronto over Winnipeg at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Leafs were rolling at this time last week, riding a four-game winning streak despite missing a number of key cogs due to injury. Since then, they've dropped three games in a row, including Tuesday's 4-3 setback against the Jets in the first of a three-game set here in Toronto. I look for the Leafs to respond favorably on Thursday as they look to get back on the winning side of the ledger. Note that they've allowed just 2.1 goals per game, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of one goal when revenging a loss against an opponent this season. They've also outscored opponents by an average margin of 0.9 goals when playing on home ice after allowing three goals or more in three straight games over the last two seasons. Meanwhile, Winnipeg has allowed a whopping 4.2 goals per game after posting a division win on the road over the last two seasons. Take Toronto (10*).

NHL West Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Vegas over Minnesota at 7:05 pm et on Wednesday.

We won with the Wild in the front half of this two-game set on Monday but I won't hesitate to go the other way and back the Knights on Wednesday. Monday's loss snapped Vegas' six-game winning streak but it remains 6-3 on the road this season where it allows only 1.9 goals per game. Note that the Knights are allowing just 1.6 goals per game when playing on the road off a loss against a division opponent over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.3 goals in that situation. Coming off a road loss by two goals or more over the last two seasons, the Knights have gone 9-1, outscoring opponents by a wide 1.7-goal margin on average. On the flip side, the Wild have given up a whopping 4.3 goals per game when coming off a home win by two goal so more over the last two seasons, outscored by an average margin of 1.6 goals in that situation. Take Vegas (10*).

NHL East Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Florida over Columbus at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Panthers delivered a poor performance on Sunday as they dropped a 4-2 decision in Carolina. That was just their first loss in their last three games, however, and they still own an impressive 15-5-4 overall record this season. While the Blue Jackets have generally owned this series, going 24-11 in the last 35 meetings, there's no question the Panthers are a better team this year than we've seen in years' past. The Jackets check in having won just twice in their last eight games. Note that Columbus has averaged only 2.3 goals per game when playing at home after winning two of its last three contests, as is the case here. Meanwhile, we can anticipate a solid offensive showing from the Panthers here as they've averaged a whopping 4.4 goals per game when coming off a road loss by two goals or more over the last two seasons, going a perfect 5-0 in that situation. The Blue Jackets are a nice negative momentum fade here having gone 4-11 when coming off a loss in a division game over the last two seasons, outscored by 1.1 goals on average in that situation. Take Florida (10*).

NHL North Division Game of the Week. My selection is on Montreal over Vancouver at 10:05 pm et on Monday.

On paper, the case could be made that both of these teams are 'due' for a letdown on Monday night with the Canadiens coming off a 7-1 victory over Winnipeg and Vancouver fresh off consecutive victories over Toronto. As the line certainly appears to indicate, I believe the Habs are in better position to steady their course and avoid that letdown on Monday. A few quotes from Canucks players lead me to believe they'll be hard-pressed to get back to the level they played at in that two-game sweep of the Leafs. "It's been a tough go, and for our team to keep battling and stick to the process tonight, I think it's huge for our group and give us a lot of confidence," Brock Boeser said. And this from J.T. Miller, "It feels pretty awesome and we know it's in there," he said. "It means a lot to us. We take a lot of pride in beating a team like that at home twice when we really need wins. We talked a lot over the last three weeks or so about playing well but not getting the results. We've shown that we can beat anybody in the league, and we still believe that, even though the record wouldn't necessarily show it. But it feels pretty awesome." While those quotes may be encouraging to some, I believe they might indicate Vancouver is a little high on its horse off those victories, especially given it still has just 11 wins in 28 games this season. Note that Vancouver averages just 2.8 goals per game when coming off a win over the last three seasons, outscored by 0.2 goals per game on average in that situation. Meanwhile, Montreal seems to get a lift heading out on the road following a homestand, having averaged 3.3 goals per game, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.3 goals when playing on the road after two consecutive home games over the last two seasons, as is the case here. Take Montreal (10*).

NHL Revenge Game of the Month. My selection is on Tampa Bay over Chicago at 2:35 pm et on Sunday.

The Lightning haven't been at their best in their last couple of games against the Blackhawks, first needing to rally from a 2-0 third period deficit to secure a 3-2 overtime win on Thursday before dropping a 4-3 shootout decision on Friday. I do look for them to bring their 'A' game on Sunday as they look to come away with five of a possible six points in this three-game set in Chicago. Note that Tampa Bay has allowed just 2.1 goals per game when revenging a loss on the road over the last two seasons, outscoring opponents by an average margin of 0.7 goals in that situation. The Blackhawks haven't fared particularly well when coming off a close victory in recent years, allowing an average of 4.1 goals after a one-goal win over the last three seasons. In general, the Lightning have been a solid bet when coming off a loss of any sort on the road over the last three seasons, going 24-7 in their next game while averaging over four goals per game and outscoring opponents by an average margin of 1.6 goals. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

NHL Central Division Game of the Year. My selection is on Dallas over Columbus at 8:05 pm et on Saturday.

I'll back the Stars on Saturday night as they look to right the ship and shake out of a miserable run in a rematch with the Blue Jackets. Columbus skated to a 3-2 victory in the first of this two-game set on Thursday. That actually puts Dallas in a solid situation here, noting that it has allowed just 2.1 goals on average when revenging a loss against an opponent over the last two seasons. Also note that Columbus is averaging just 2.1 goals per game when playing on the road off a road victory over the last two seasons. The Stars have gone a solid 10-4 under the guidance of head coach Rick Bowness when playing with double-revenge against an opponent, outscoring the opposition by a margin of 1.1 goals. Take Dallas (10*).

NHL West Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Minnesota over Arizona at 9:05 pm et on Friday.

The Wild are coming off back-to-back losses in Las Vegas earlier this week - not all that surprising as they were certainly in for some regression off six straight victories and the Golden Knights offered a significant test. Here, I look for Minnesota to bounce back as it heads to Glendale to face the Coyotes. Note that Minnesota has gone 8-1 off a loss by four goals or more over the last two seasons, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 1.5 goals. Meanwhile, Arizona has been dreadful off a road win against a division opponent (it enters this game off a 3-2 victory in Los Angeles two nights ago), going 1-8 in that situation over the last three seasons, losing those games by an average margin of 2.1 goals. The last five times the Coyotes have returned home following a one-goal road win they've gone winless and have allowed a whopping five goals per game, outscored by an average margin of 2.6 goals. Take Minnesota (10*).

NHL Underdog Game of the Month. My selection is on Pittsburgh over Philadelphia at 7:05 pm et on Thursday.

The Flyers will likely be a popular play on Thursday night as bettors race to the window to fade the Sidney Crosby-less Penguins coming off Tuesday's 5-2 blowout win in the opener of this three-game set in Pittsburgh. I'll go the other way, however, as the Pens have become accustomed to playing (and succeeding) without Crosby over the years and who's to argue with a dominant 8-1 home record this season? Many had the Flyers pegged as a Stanley Cup contender at the outset of the season and while there's still plenty of time for that to play out, the fact is they've been a fairly large disappointment, barely hanging on to the fourth and final playoff spot in the East Division. The Pens are the team nipping at their heels and here I look for them to stake claim to that position. Note that Philadelphia has been a good negative momentum fade in recent years, allowing a whopping 4.4 goals per game on 14 occasions where they were off a road loss over the last two seasons, outscored by an average margin of 1.4 goals in that situation. They also have a tendency to get weaker the more they play on the road, having allowed an average of 4.6 goals per game off two consecutive games played away from home over the last two seasons. Take Pittsburgh (10*).

NHL North Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Winnipeg over Vancouver at 8:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Canucks jumped out in front early in last night's game here in Winnipeg and were never really tested from there in an eventual 4-0 victory. That looked an awful lot like a 'throwaway' game for the Jets after they dug themselves that 3-0 first period hole as they offered little push back from there. I certainly expect Winnipeg to respond with a tremendous effort on Tuesday night. Keep in mind, Winnipeg had been playing well entering last night's contest, having won four straight and eight of its last 11 games overall. This has been a tight series with each team taking two games in four meetings so far this season. Look for the Jets to gain the upper hand tonight. Take Winnipeg (10*).

My selection is on Edmonton over Toronto at 10:05 pm et on Monday.

I like the bounce-back spot for the Oilers on Monday night after suffering a 4-0 loss against the Leafs on Saturday. In recent years, a loss like Saturday's may have sent the Oilers into a tailspin but they've looked like a different team this year. Note that Edmonton is 20-10 when revenging a loss where they scored a goal or less as is the case here, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 0.7 goals. The Oilers are also 23-11 after allowing four goals or more in their last game over the last two seasons. Take Edmonton (10*).

NHL Central Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Columbus over Nashville at 3:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Blue Jackets continue to limp along, coming off three consecutive losses to wrap up a disappointing 1-3 homestand. That stretch started with a win over these same Predators - a rare occurrence in a series Nashville has dominated. With that being said, I like the way this situation sets up for the Jackets on Saturday. Note that Nashville is just 13-22 after winning two of its last three games over the last two seasons, outscored by a goal per game on average in that situation. The Preds are also a miserable 3-10 after playing their last three games on the road, as is the case here, outscored by a wide 1.5-goal margin on average. We have seen Columbus bounce back from bad losses with some consistency under head coach John Tortorella, going 35-26 after losing by two goals or more in their last game. Take Columbus (10*).

My selection is on Colorado over Arizona at 9:05 pm et on Friday.

We missed the mark with the Avalanche two nights ago as they got blown out by the Wild, on home ice no less. I won't hesitate to go back to the well with them here, however, as they face a familiar foe in the Coyotes. Note that Colorado has gone 7-3 against Arizona over the last three seasons and breezed past the 'Yotes in last year's playoffs, capped off by consecutive 7-1 victories to close out the series. Colorado is 12-5 when playing on the road off a loss by three goals or more over the last three seasons, averaging just shy of four goals per game in that situation. Meanwhile, the Coyotes are a miserable 3-15 when coming off a one-goal victory over the last two seasons, outscored by an average margin of 1.3 goals in that situation. Take Colorado (10*).

NHL Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Colorado over Minnesota at 9:05 pm et on Wednesday.

I absolutely love the way this one sets up for the Avs as they look to bounce back from a 3-0 loss suffered at the hands of the Golden Knights on Monday (we won with Vegas as our Underdog Game of the Month in that game). The Avs were certainly ripe for a letdown on Monday as they were fresh off their marathon victory over Vegas outdoors at Lake Tahoe two nights earlier. Minnesota is rolling along right now but that actually works against it in this particular spot. Note that the Wild are a miserable 9-24 on the moneyline the last 33 times they've followed consecutive wins by three goals or more. They've also struggled in similar revenge roles such as this, having gone 10-25 on the moneyline when revenging a one-goal loss over the last three seasons, outscored by an average margin of 1.1 goals in that situation. This has been a tightly-contested series over the years but the Avs have started to turn the tide, taking three of the last four meetings. While we are dealing with a fairly high price here, I believe it could be even higher. Take Colorado (10*).

NHL Underdog Game of the Month. My selection is on Vegas over Colorado at 9:05 pm et on Monday.

The Avs got the better of the Knights in Saturday's marathon game at Lake Tahoe, prevailing by a 3-2 score on the shoulders of a three-point effort from Nathan MacKinnon. Here, I look for the Knights to answer back following consecutive losses against Colorado. Keep in mind, prior to dropping its last two games, Vegas had won five of its last six overall. The Knights can't sit around feeling sorry for themselves as their trip will continue in San Jose and Anaheim as they won't return home until next week. I expect to see a galvanized effort from them here following that rather punchless performance on Saturday (they were outshot 39-29 in that game). The Avs are 2-1 since returning from an extended Covid-related absence but they've scored just six goals in the process. Note that under head coach Peter Deboer, the Knights are 10-1 the last 11 times they've allowed at least three goals in two straight games, outscoring the opposition by an average of 1.7 goals. Take Vegas (10*).

My selection is on Vancouver over Winnipeg at 10:05 pm et on Sunday.

I like the Canucks to get back at the Jets following Friday night's no-show on home ice. Vancouver had been playing well, seemingly having turned the corner prior to Friday's setback. The Jets have been as uneven as they come this season and I'm just not confident in their ability to follow up Friday's performance with another victory here on Sunday. The oddsmakers have it right installing the Canucks as a favorite by my estimation. Look for Vancouver's best players to show up and guide it to a win to close out this two-game set with Winnipeg. Take Vancouver (10*).

My selection is on Arizona over Los Angeles at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Kings have now won a season-high three games in a row after pulling out a 3-2 shootout victory in the first game of this two-game set in Glendale on Thursday night. We won with the 'under' in that contest, but here we'll back the favored Coyotes. Credit Arizona for at least earning a point in that game as it fell behind 2-0 early before rallying. The Coyotes are one of those teams that generally flies beneath most bettors' radar but can be a quality team to back in the right situation. I see this as precisely such a situation as they look to regain their footing and start gaining some ground in the West Division with a couple of winnable home games against the Ducks coming up next. Take Arizona (10*).

My selection is on Colorado over Vegas at 10:05 pm et on Tuesday.

I like the bounce-back spot for the Avalanche here as they look to respond following a 1-0 shutout loss in their first game back following an extended layoff on Sunday. Colorado catches Vegas in a favorable situation with the Golden Knights having gone 8-12 after having won four or five of their last six games over the last two seasons, as is the case here. The Knights were outscored by an average margin of 0.7 goals in those contests. The Avs are one of the few teams that have held their own against Vegas in recent years, splitting the last 10 meetings in this series, including two wins at T-Mobile Arena last season. Take Colorado (10*).

NHL North Division Game of the Week. My selection is on Edmonton over Winnipeg at 9:05 pm et on Monday.

I expect the Jets to suffer a hangover of sorts following Saturday's last-second loss against the lowly Senators on home ice. Winnipeg has to be doubting itself a bit right now having dropped four of its last seven games overall. Meanwhile, the Oilers are back home off of three consecutive wins, outscoring the opposition 9-3 over that stretch. They've been idle since Thursday's 3-0 victory in Montreal. Look for the Oil to defend home ice in this one. Take Edmonton (10*).

NHL East Division Game of the Year. My selection is on Washington over Pittsburgh at 3:05 pm et on Sunday.

The Capitals will be playing with double-revenge on Sunday after dropping back-to-back games in Pittsburgh earlier this season. Of course, both of those games could have gone either way. Note that Washington is 60-39 on the road revenging a road loss, outscoring the opposition by 0.4 goals per game in that situation. Even against a rival such as the Caps, I still see this as a letdown spot for the Penguins after they secured a come-from-behind shootout win over the Islanders last time out. That victory snapped a two-game skid but Pittsburgh has still just won twice in its last six contests. Washington is coming off three straight losses but hasn't played since February 7th due to Covid protocols involving their opponents, the Flyers and Sabres. Take Washington (10*).

My selection is on Nashville over Detroit at 8:05 pm et on Saturday.

We're being asked to lay a fairly steep price with the Predators here considering they're just 6-8 on the season. I actually feel the line could be much higher, however. Detroit really is that bad. The Red Wings have managed just one win in their last 11 games. They're set up poorly here, noting they've gone a dreadful 1-17 on the moneyline when playing on the road off a road loss over the last two seasons and they've been outscored by 2.2 goals per game in those contests. Noting their streaky nature, the Wings have gone 1-23 on the moneyline after losing six or seven of their last eight games (as is the case here) over the last two seasons. In those games they've been outscored by an average margin of 2.4 goals. The Preds are in a far more favorable situation having gone 185-136 on the monyeline after losing three of their last four games. Look for the Preds to continue to take their frustrations out on the lowly Wings here. Take Nashville (10*).

NHL Revenge Game of the Year. My selection is on St. Louis over Arizona at 9:05 pm et on Friday.

We get to back the Blues at a discount as the scene shifts to Arizona for yet another matchup between these two teams on Friday night. Of course, home ice advantage means little this season with no fans in the stands. That was clearly evident over the last four games as the Coyotes took three of four meetings in St. Louis. That sets the Blues up well here, noting that they're a highly profitable 8-2 on the road when playing with triple revenge over the last three seasons, outscoring the opposition by an average margin of 3-1.6 in those contests. Meanwhile, Arizona is 1-6 after having won four or five of its last six games over the last two seasons, outscored by an average margin of 0.9 goals in those games. The 'Yotes are also a miserable 2-13 following a one-goal victory over the last two years, losing those games by an average margin of 3.6-2.3. Take St. Louis (10*).

NHL North Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Calgary over Winnipeg at 10:05 pm et on Tuesday.

I'm higher on the Flames than most in spite of their uneven 5-5-1 start to the season. We won with them on Saturday as they prevailed by a 6-4 score in the campaign's first installment of the 'Battle of Alberta' against the Oilers. Here, they'll be looking to avenge three losses in four tries against the Jets already this season. Calgary went out and got goaltender Jakob Markstrom in the offseason in an effort to compete against teams like the Jets, who have a bonafide star in goal in Connor Hellebuyck. So far this season Markstrom hasn't disappointed, actually matching Hellebuyck's numbers on the whole and besting him in some regards including a 2-0 edge in shutouts. Winnipeg is off to a 7-3-1 start on the strength of those aforementioned three wins over the Flames. I don't really like the scheduling spot here as they play this one-off on the road before returning home for consecutive (winnable) games against the Senators. Take Calgary (10*).

NHL West Division Game of the Year. My selection is on St. Louis over Arizona at 8:05 pm et on Monday.

The Blues came out completely flat in Saturday's matinee affair against the Coyotes, perhaps lacking excitement or motivation playing the same team for a third consecutive game. Now after dropping back-to-back games against Arizona, I do think St. Louis will be able to draw the appropriate level of motivation and hunger as it tries to salvage a split in this four-game set. The Blues were fortunate not to suffer a more lopsided loss on Saturday considering the way they played. They're still a respectable 7-4-1 on the campaign and that marked the first time this season they've dropped consecutive games. For Arizona, Saturday's victory marked the first time it managed to secure back-to-back wins this season. I believe it will be hard-pressed to make it three victories in a row on Monday as it likely has one eye on getting out of St. Louis and back home for a staggering 10-game homestand beginning this Saturday against - you guessed it - the St. Louis Blues. Take St. Louis (10*).

My selection is on New York over Pittsburgh at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Islanders always seem to get up for the Penguins, having taken seven of the last 10 meetings in the series, and coming off an extended losing streak followed by a long layoff I expect to see them bring their best effort on Saturday night on Long Island. Of course, the Pens are also coming off an extended layoff due to Covid-related postponements. With both teams looking to regain their footing off of losing efforts, I'll give the Isles the edge on home ice. Barry Trotz is one of the best coaches in the league. He'll have his Isles ready for Sid and co. on Saturday night. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on St. Louis over Arizona at 3:05 pm et on Saturday.

The Blues and Coyotes have split the first two games of this three-game set, with Arizona prevailing by a 4-3 score last time out. Keep in mind, St. Louis checks in a perfect 3-0 this season when coming off a loss. I like the offensive consistency the Blues have shown lately, scoring at least three goals in six consecutive games entering this one. The Coyotes are a middling squad, having gone 0-3 when following a victory this season. Take St. Louis (10*).

My selection is on Boston over Philadelphia at 7:05 pm et on Friday.

The Bruins have quite simply had the Flyers number this season. David Pastrnak has to be in Flyers goaltender Carter Hart's head at this point. After rallying from a third period deficit to win in overtime on Wednesday night, I'm confident we see the B's keep on rolling on Friday night in Philadelphia. The Flyers aren't off to a bad start but haven't lived up to lofty expectations by any means. Look for Boston to prevail in what could be another high-scoring affair. Take Boston (10*).

My selection is on Vancouver over Montreal at 7:05 pm et on Monday.

The price is just too steep in favor of the Habs in this one as they look to bounce back from Saturday's 2-0 loss to the Flames. The Canucks got off to a slow start this season but managed to get right with three straight high-scoring wins over the Senators and followed that up with a 4-1 victory over the Jets on Saturday. I believe Vancouver is a galvanized squad right now and should relish the opportunity to head east and take down the Habs - who had been off to a red hot start prior to Saturday's setback. Keep in mind, the Canucks will be looking for an ounce of revenge here as well after dropping a pair of contests against the Canadiens in Vancouver earlier this season. Take Vancouver (10*).

My selection is on Edmonton over Toronto at 7:05 pm et on Saturday.

We missed the mark with the Oilers in Thursday's 4-3 loss but I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play on Saturday night. Edmonton came up just short in the opener of this two-game set, dropping a 4-3 decision. It's been another slow start for the Oilers but I am confident they can rise to the occasion in this Saturday night contest. The fact that we're being offered an even higher price (at the time of writing) than we saw on Thursday makes this a worthwhile wager. Take Edmonton (10*).

NHL Game of the Week. My selection is on Edmonton over Toronto at 10:05 pm et on Thursday.

The value has shifted to the Oilers for this one as these two North Division foes renew hostilities after last week's two-game set in Toronto. Edmonton managed to split that mini-series and I look for it to gain the upper hand here as it catches the Maple Leafs in a clear letdown spot off consecutive wins in Calgary. Connor McDavid appears in midseason form for the Oil already this season and this is a big step-up spot at home against Auston Matthews and the Leafs. We'll back the Oil in an underdog role. Take Edmonton (10*).

My selection is on Florida over Columbus at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Blue Jackets had a busy weekend on and off the ice and enter this game off a big 5-2 win over the Lightning on Saturday. I suspect a letdown could be in order on Tuesday, however, as they host the Panthers. Florida is off to a perfect 2-0 start, delivering consecutive wins over the Blackhawks to open the campaign. With their last two games in Carolina having been postponed, this will be Florida's first game in a week. I do expect it to respond favorably, however. I have the Panthers rated higher than some, and believe we're being offered a very generous price to back them in this winnable matchup. Take Florida (10*).

My selection is on Minnesota over San Jose at 8:05 pm et on Sunday.

The Wild keep rolling along and after winning with them on Friday night against the Sharks, I won't hesitate to go back to the well with them again in the same matchup on Sunday. We're actually being afforded a cheaper price to back Minnesota (at the time of writing). The revenge angle is one that many bettors have been reaching for here in the early going of this unique 2021 NHL season. I'm simply not high on the Sharks at all and don't believe they'll catch the Wild napping in this spot. Take Minnesota (10*).

My selection is on Minnesota over San Jose at 8:05 pm et on Friday.

The Sharks have perhaps exceeded expectations by winning two of their first four games - all on the road - to open the season. With that being said, it's worth noting that one of those wins came by way of overtime with the other coming in a shootout. Minnesota checks in an impressive 3-1 - also starting the season with four straight road games. I liked the way the Wild bounced back with a very composed effort against the Ducks on Wednesday night and look for them to continue to play well in their home opener on Friday night. While they're installed as a considerable home favorite here, I believe the price could be even higher. Take Minnesota (10*).

My selection is on Vancouver over Montreal at 9:35 pm et on Thursday.

A shootout ultimately amounts to little more than a coin flip but the Canucks have to feel good about snapping their three-game skid with a wild 6-5 shootout victory over the Canadiens last night. Credit Vancouver for hanging in there after falling behind with less than four minutes remaining in the third period, tying the game less than a minute later to force overtime. We won with the Canucks in that game and I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play here. Montreal is off to a flying start offensively but has to be a little road weary at this point having played four games in three different cities over the last week. I'm not sure how long they can keep up their roaring start. The price is right to back the Canucks here in what should be a lower-scoring affair than we saw a night ago. Take Vancouver (10*).

My selection is on Vancouver over Montreal at 10:05 pm et on Wednesday.

The Canadiens are off to a roaring start to the new season, having collected at least a point in all three games and coming off back-to-back dominating victories over the Oilers. After winning with ease with backup Jake Allen between the pipes on Monday, I suspect the majority of bettors will be quick to back them again here, especially given the Canucks early season struggles having dropped three of their first four games. I'm anticipating a strong performance from Vancouver here, however, as it returns home for the first time this season. It's easy to forget that the Canucks opened the season with a solid 5-3 win in Edmonton one week ago tonight. Since then, their offense has gone cold, scoring just four goals in three games. There's too much talent on board to stay down for long though. I believe Vancouver has a lot of upside at the current price in the first of three straight games against Montreal. Take Vancouver (10*).

My selection is on Pittsburgh over Washington at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

The Penguins got a much-needed victory by way of a shootout against the Capitals on Sunday afternoon and I look for them to pull back to .500 on the season with another win on Tuesday. Washington played a really tough road game on Sunday and has now come away with five of a possible six points despite having yet to play at home through three games this season. For Pittsburgh, its start couldn't have been any worse as it was dominated in consecutive games in Philadelphia. I don't believe the Pens will be satisfied with Sunday's win. They need to keep it going here and I'm confident they can. Note that they didn't get a single point from Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin in Sunday's win. It was their role players that stepped up and that should provide plenty of confidence entering this one. Take Pittsburgh (10*).

NHL North Division Game of the Month. My selection is on Ottawa over Winnipeg at 7:05 pm et on Tuesday.

I'll back the Senators on Tuesday night as they open a three-game set against the Jets. Winnipeg is in a tough spot here, playing the second of back-to-back nights following a 3-1 loss in Toronto on Monday. The Jets were without Patrik Laine in that one and it remains to be seen whether he'll be able to return on Tuesday. Winnipeg is off to a disjointed start to the season after it had a practice canceled on the weekend due to Covid concerns. Ottawa has been idle since Saturday, when it fell by a 3-2 score against the Maple Leafs. The Senators did look good in that season-opening set against the Leafs, splitting the two games. With that being said, after scoring five goals in their season-opening victory on Friday they were outshot badly on Saturday, leaving them in a key bounce back spot here. The future is bright in Ottawa even if it is unlikely to contend atop the North Division this season. I believe the Sens can continue to make some early season noise and catch the Jets at the right time here on Tuesday. Take Ottawa (10*).

My selection is on Anaheim over Minnesota at 9:05 pm et on Monday.

The Ducks are coming off consecutive losses in Las Vegas but I did like the fight they showed in their last game, bouncing back from a blowout loss in their opener to grab a single point in an overtime loss. Minnesota is riding high off back-to-back overtime wins over the Kings but let's not get too excited just yet. I don't think the Kings are going to be very good this year, so those two victories may not turn out to be all that impressive. Wild rookie Kirill Kaprizov has been the story early on but I expect the Ducks to key on him on Monday night and ultimately pick up their first win of the season. Take Anaheim (10*).

My selection is on Tampa Bay over Dallas at 8:05 pm et on Monday.

We won with the Stars in Game 5 of this series on Saturday night but I'll admit we were fortunate to do so in that double-overtime thriller. That one just as easily could have gone the way of the Lightning and we would already be talking about the newly crowned Stanley Cup champions. Here, I look for the Lightning to make amends for Saturday's misstep and secure their second ever Stanley Cup championship. It's been obvious throughout the first five games of this series that the Lightning have been superior team, generally carrying the play, and showing the ability to reach back to that second gear when needed. Give the Stars all the credit in the world for getting to this point and pushing the Bolts this far, but I don't see this series going the distance. Behind another big performance from goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy look for the Lightning to close out what has been a memorable 2020 NHL Playoffs. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

My selection is on Dallas over Tampa Bay at 8:05 pm et on Saturday.

I'll back the Stars to stave off elimination at the hands of the Lightning on Saturday. Dallas certainly showed plenty of fight last night but ultimately fell in overtime. The Stars have proven to be a tough out throughout these playoffs and there's little reason to expect them to roll over in this one. Behind a much sharper defensive effort look for Dallas to push this series to a sixth game. Take Dallas (10*).

My selection is on Dallas over Tampa Bay at 8:05 pm et on Wednesday.

The Stars were in a tough spot in Game 2 of this series. After winning Game 1 they knew they were going to get the Lightning's best effort on Monday, and Tampa Bay not surprisingly came out on fire, scoring three goals in the first period en route to a 3-2 victory. Now that the series is level again, I look for the Stars to show some push back on Wednesday night. I've been anticipating some regression from Starts goaltender Anton Khudobin given all the hockey he has played in the last two months. While he did suffer a bit of a lapse in the first period of Game 2, I expect a return to form here in Game 3. Take Dallas (10*).

NHL Stanley Cup Final Game of the Year. My selection is on Tampa Bay over Dallas at 8:05 pm et on Monday.

While I did like the Stars to win this series at the outset, and my opinion certainly hasn't changed following Game 1, I do look for the Lightning to even things up at a game apiece on Monday night. As I've been saying for quite some time now, at some point you have to figure we see some cracks in Stars G Anton Khudobin's armor. He's played a ton of hockey in these playoffs, and has faced a boatload of shots. That was no different in the series opener as the Lightning poured it on (as usual) in the third period. Look for Tampa Bay to do a much better job of converting on its opportunities here in Game 2. The price is right to back the Bolts. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

My selection is on Tampa Bay over New York at 8:10 pm et on Thursday.

We won with the Islanders (puck-line) in Game 5 of this series two nights ago but I won't hesitate to switch gears and back the Lightning here as they look to advance to the Stanley Cup Final. Even without Brayden Point in the lineup, the Bolts have still looked dangerous offensively over the last couple of games, firing 73 shots at Isles goaltender Semyon Varlamov. They didn't get much 'puck luck' in Game 5 but that doesn't tend to last long when it comes to elite teams. The real key here might be the play of Tampa Bay goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy. He hasn't been quite as dominant as we've been accustomed to seeing in this series but certainly played well enough to backstop the Bolts to a victory last time out and I'm confident he'll come up big in this potential series clincher. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

My selection is on Vegas over Dallas at 8:10 pm et on Saturday.

Back-and-forth they go and I look for the zig-zag pattern to continue in Game 4 on Saturday night. The Golden Knights have certainly looked like the better team through the first three games, but only have one win to show for it. It certainly seems as if whenever Vegas wants, or needs to turn it on it has that additional gear. Without question, Stars goaltender Anton Khudobin is the reason they currently hold the series lead. After facing 97 shots through three games, I'm just not sure how much he possibly has left in the tank. Take Vegas (10*).

My selection is on New York over Tampa Bay at 8:10 pm et on Friday.

While most see their heartbreaking Game 2 loss as an absolute back-breaker for the Islanders, I don't expect this resilient bunch to quit just yet. New York certainly turned in a much stronger performance than we saw in the series-opener when they were blitzed 8-2. The Lightning's depth could be tested in this game with Alex Killorn suspended and Brayden Point questionable to play. I actually expect Point to be in the lineup for this game, but how effective he can be remains to be seen. Look for the Isles to throw everything they have at the Bolts in this one as they at least make the series interesting heading into Game 4. Take New York (10*).

NHL Conference Final Game of the Year. My selection is on Vegas over Dallas at 8:10 pm et on Tuesday.

Vegas simply didn't show up ready to play in the opener of this series on Sunday night. Maybe it was due to the Knights breathing a sigh of relief after a hard-fought series against an upstart Canucks squad. Maybe Vegas was caught reading a bit of its own press as it prepared to face the Stars, who few expected to reach this stage of the playoffs. Either way, the Knights did wake up in the third period of Game 1, outshooting Dallas by a 15-2 margin. Despite the 1-0 loss, I do think Vegas carries some confidence into Game 2 and expect to see one of its best performances in the playoffs to date. While I do have a lot of respect for Rick Bowness and the Stars (having picked them to beat the Avalanche in Game 7 last round), I look for them to fall short here. Take Vegas (10*).

My selection is on Tampa Bay over New York at 8:10 pm et on Monday.

While this does have the makings of a long, hard-fought series, I'll side with the favored Lightning in Game 1 on Monday night. Tampa Bay offers a much different challenge to New York than Philadelphia did last round. The Flyers had to lean heavily on goaltender Carter Hart to stick around in the latter part of that series. Unfortunately they weren't able to generate enough of an offensive attack to ultimately get over the hump. Here, the Lightning have an elite goaltender in Andrei Vasilevskiy but also have the offense to break down what has been a rock solid Islanders defense (head coach Barry Trotz has made a big difference in that regard). In what should be a fairly low-scoring series-opener, look for the Bolts to prevail. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

My selection is on Dallas over Colorado at 8 pm et on Friday.

The Avs have climbed all the way back in this series with back-to-back dominating victories but I don't expect them to complete the comeback on Friday night. Dallas has actually outshot Colorado by a 46-27 margin over the last four periods of hockey. The Avs have gotten a boost from goaltender Michael Hutchinson but let's not lose sight of the fact that he's still a very average NHL netminder (you may remember he was run out of town as the backup in Toronto). The Stars don't strike me as the type of team that will fold under the pressure here in Game 7. Take Dallas (10*).

My selection is on New York over Philadelphia at 7:10 pm et on Thursday.

Entering these unique NHL Playoffs my first thought was that we could see a sleeper team end up going on a deep run and maybe even hoisting the Stanley Cup and the Islanders certainly seem to fit that bill. New York not surprisingly turned in a bit of a flat effort with a chance to eliminate the Flyers two nights ago but did rally late to tie the game before falling in overtime. Here, I look for a more focused and complete effort from the Isles as they certainly don't want to get involved in a seventh and deciding game, where anything can happen, and knowing the Flyers have a goalie capable of stealing such a game in Carter Hart. While I did like the Flyers entering this series, Hart as admittedly not been at the top of his game and their overall play has been uneven. Take New York (10*).

NHL Second Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Colorado over Dallas at 9:45 pm et on Monday.

The Avalanche simply haven't been able to keep up with the Stars red-hot scoring in this series but they continue to generate a ton of scoring opportunities and I look for them to capitalize and get themselves back in the series with a victory on Monday night. Colorado had a number of bad bounces go against them in last night's 5-4 loss, which really wasn't as close as the final score indicated. It was generally a flat performance from the Avs and I think the quick turnaround will help their cause on Monday as they look to answer back. While Colorado is a young team, it has gained a great deal of playoff experience in recent years and I don't expect to see it simply fold the tent facing elimination on Monday night. If we know one thing, it's that the Stars can suffer defensive lapses and I look for Colorado to take advantage here. Take Colorado (10*).

My selection is on Boston over Tampa Bay at 7 pm et on Monday.

I don't expect the Bruins to simply roll over on Monday night, even as they face elimination and perhaps the enticing prospect of leaving the "bubble". Yes, Tampa Bay has dominated this series since dropping the opener but the Bruins are still a veteran-laden, talented squad that knows they're capable of getting back in the series. 3-1 series deficits aren't insurmountable and I expect the Bruins to finally get back at the Bolts here on Monday. Take Boston (10*).

My selection is on Colorado over Dallas at 6 pm et on Saturday.

We won with the Avalanche in the last game in this series and I won't hesitate to go back to the well with the same play in Game 4 on Sunday. Colorado has generally controlled the game flow in this series so far, but some lapses have cost it a 2-1 series deficit. We saw the Avs get refocused and rally from a couple of deficits in Game 3, and now I look for a more complete 60-minute effort on Sunday evening. This has all the makings of a long series. Look for the Avs to even things up here. Take Colorado (10*).

My selection is on Colorado over Dallas at 10:30 pm et on Wednesday.

The Stars pummeled the Avalanche on their way to a 5-2 victory in Game 2 of this series on Monday night. Expect the Avs to answer the bell on Wednesday as they look to get back in this series. Colorado has yet to turn in a complete 60-minute effort in this series. It will need to produce that if it's going to contend with the red hot Stars. It is worth noting that the Avs have fired 71 shots on goal through two games so it's not as if they're not generating any pressure. Their issue has been a lack of defensive structure, due to injuries and otherwise, but I'm confident we'll finally see them pull together on the back-end on Wednesday night. If not they might as well pack up their bags and prepare to leave the "bubble". As we're being asked to lay the shortest price of the series to date, I'll back the Avs again here. Take Colorado (10*).

My selection is on Philadelphia over New York at 3 pm et on Wednesday.

I always like to back good goaltenders in bounce-back situations and we have just that with Carter Hart and the Flyers looking to rebound from a poor showing in Game 1 of this series. Of course, Hart wasn't really to blame in that series-opening loss as he kept his team in the game for two periods before the Islanders broke it open in the third. It is worth noting that off a loss in these playoffs, Hart has allowed just two goals on 56 shots, going a perfect 2-0 in the process. The Islanders might just be the hottest team in the Toronto "bubble" but the Flyers are no pushovers and unlike the Capitals last round, I expect them to make a series of this. For that to happen they need to respond with a big effort on Wednesday, and I'll call for them to do just that. Take Philadelphia (10*).

My selection is on Tampa Bay over Boston at 7 pm et on Tuesday.

We're able to back the Lightning at what I would consider a discount price on Tuesday night, perhaps due to the nature of their loss in the opener of this series. Tampa Bay appeared to be outclassed for much of that game, ultimately falling by a 3-2 score. I like the veteran leadership on this well-coached Tampa Bay squad and certainly expect to see its best effort in Game 2 on Tuesday night. As I noted in my analysis prior to Game 1, I like the Lightning's edge between the pipes in this series with Andrei Vasilevskiy over Jaro Halak. We saw Halak turn in a terrific performance in the series-opener but I also don't feel the Lightning were hard enough on him. Look for a different story to play out in Game 2. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

My selection is on Colorado over Dallas at 9:45 pm et on Monday.

I fully expect a strong bounce-back effort from the Avalanche following a brutal performance in Game 1 of this series on Saturday night. The Avs certainly got caught flat-footed in that contest. As head coach Jared Bednar alluded to following the game, "half of the team didn't show up to play." Now Colorado is dealing with a few key injury concerns but no team is immune to that in the playoffs and I think we'll see the Avs rally around those injuries. The Stars 'run and gun' style of play has paid off at times in these playoffs, but as we saw in Game 1, even with the Avs not bringing their best effort they were still able to find the back of the net three times. Look for the Avs to even up this series on Monday night. Take Colorado (10*).

My selection is on Tampa Bay over Boston at 8 pm et on Sunday.

I expect the Lightning to win this series and with that in mind, I'll call for them to get it off to a strong start with a victory in the opener on Sunday. This series could very well come down to goaltending. In that department I give Tampa Bay a significant edge with Andrei Vasilevskiy. Give Jaro Halak credit for backstopping the Bruins to a series win over the Hurricanes after Tuukka Rask opted out but let's face it, Halak didn't face the Canes best after Andrei Svechnikov was sidelined due to injury. The Lightning are well-positioned to go on a Stanley Cup run in the "bubble" and I look for their talent to win out in Game 1 of this series on Sunday. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

NHL First Round Game of the Year. My selection is on Philadelphia over Montreal at 7:05 pm et on Friday.

The Canadiens stunned the Flyers and staved off elimination on Wednesday night but paid a price in doing so with Brendan Gallagher suffering a broken jaw on what most would consider a very dirty play. While Montreal will certainly have all the motivation in the world to force a seventh and deciding game, I don't expect it to pull it off. It seems that it's been 'all or nothing' for the Habs in these playoffs. Keep in mind, they've scored a grand total of one goal in their three losses so far in this series but a whopping 10 goals in their two victories. Here, I expect a strong bounce-back performance from Flyers goaltender Carter Hart who would be the first to admit he wasn't good in Game 5. I don't think there's any question Philadelphia is the superior team in this matchup, even if it hasn't shown it at times. Give the Canadiens all the credit in the world for getting this far, but I think their playoff journey ends on Friday night. Take Philadelphia (10*).

My selection is on New York over Washington at 8:05 pm et on Thursday.

My initial lean was admittedly to the Capitals in this one but after giving it some further thought, I'm going to go the other way and back the Islanders as they look to close out the series on Thursday night. The Isles might have got caught looking ahead after jumping out to a 2-0 lead in Game 4 two nights ago. That's a mistake I'm sure they learned from as you simply can't let your foot off the proverbial throat of a team as experienced and talented as the Capitals. Here, I expect to see a sharper, more complete effort from New York. I think this is a game where we'll see Isles head coach Barry Trotz make the necessary adjustments and provide the motivation (not that it's needed at this point) for his players to turn in their best performance of the series. That's what will be necessary to wrap things up on Thursday night. Take New York (10*).

My selection is on Boston over Carolina at 4 pm et on Wednesday.

The Bruins have been a different team since goaltender Tuukka Rask opted out of the NHL Playoffs this past Saturday morning. Since then, they've gone 2-0, outscoring the Canes by a 7-3 margin and outshooting them 72-49. If we were going to see some pushback from Carolina it would have come in Game 4 on Monday. While the Canes did jump out to a 2-0 lead, they didn't seem to be the aggressors. The Bruins essentially toyed with them in the final period, scoring four unanswered goals. While I'm not a big believer in momentum, I do feel Boston is well-positioned to keep rolling here. Carolina looked like an awfully deep team against the Rangers last round but that depth has been tested with Andrei Svechnikov sidelined, shaking up their lines significantly. They haven't been able to truly recover and won't here. Take Boston (10*).

My selection is on Vegas over Chicago at 10:30 pm et on Tuesday.

We're being asked to lay another steep price to back the favored Golden Knights on Tuesday but I believe it is warranted. The Knights absolutely went for it in Game 4 of this series on Sunday but ran into a red hot goaltender in Corey Crawford and ultimately fell just short, allowing the Blackhawks to keep this series alive. I'm confident we'll see Vegas close out the series on Tuesday, however, as Crawford is unlikely to repeat that monumental performance. Vegas is a true Stanley Cup contender while Chicago is quite fortunate to still be playing. The road ends here for the 'Hawks who will have brighter days ahead with a fantastic young core. Take Vegas (10*).

My selection is on Washington over New York at 12 noon et on Sunday.

The Capitals have been in each of the first two games of this series and I'm confident they make a statement with a big effort on Sunday afternoon. Give credit to the Isles for grabbing a 2-0 series lead but now things get tough as they look to take a stranglehold. Last year the Isles stunningly swept the Penguins in the opening round. I simply don't see the Caps suffering the same fate. Take Washington (10*).

NHL Eastern Conference Game of the Month. My selection is on Tampa Bay over Columbus at 7:38 pm et on Saturday.

The Blue Jackets seem to be at their absolute best when facing adversity, just as we saw in Game 2 of this series after they were badly outplayed early on and fell behind 1-0. Now that they've evened this series at a game apiece, I look for a bit of a letdown from the Jackets as the Lightning's superior talent should shine through on Saturday evening in Toronto. Tampa Bay applied plenty of pressure on Columbus in Game 2, but simply didn't have any bounces go its way in an eventual 3-1 defeat. The Lightning are obviously loaded with offensive firepower and I would certainly expect to see a sharper performance on Saturday. Tampa goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy didn't bring his 'A' game in Game 2 but I do expect a solid bounce-back effort from him here. While we're being asked to lay a considerable price to back the Lightning, I do feel it is warranted. Take Tampa Bay (10*).

My selection is on Boston over Carolina at 12:08 pm et on Saturday.

10:20 am et update: Note Bruins G Tuukka Rask has opted out of the NHL Playoffs. That means Jaro Halak will be in goal for Boston today. I’ll stick with the play on the Bruins as Halak is one of the league‘s better backups.

Bruins goaltender Tuukka Rask caused quite a stir when he suggested that the atmosphere feels like that of exhibition games during these NHL Playoffs, obviously being played without fans in the "bubble" in Toronto. The Bruins certainly didn't bring their 'A' game in Game 2 of this series after prevailing in overtime in the series-opener. With that being said, the Hurricanes still needed to hang on for dear life to secure a narrow 3-2 victory in Game 2 to even up the series. Here, I look for the Bruins to bounce back on the strength of a big performance from Rask in goal as they get a leg up in Game 3 on Saturday afternoon. Take Boston (10*).